A Quiet Storm Building: The Rise of Indiana Football

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Indiana University’s football program has quietly but firmly changed its trajectory. Under head coach Curt Cignetti, the Hoosiers entered the 2025 season with questions. But early on, they’ve begun answering them — and then some.

On Saturday, Indiana (7-0) handed the Michigan State Spartans a 38-13 defeat on their home field. Hoosiers quarterback, Fernando Mendoza, completed 24 of 28 passes for 332 yards and four touchdowns in that game — showing he’s not just part of the story, he is a big part of the story.

What Makes Indiana a #2 Candidate?

Here are the key factors:

1. Signature Wins

Beating a major opponent away (like Oregon earlier this season) and then dominating a more typical conference foe shows they’re not just winning — they’re handling business.

2. Strong Computer / Analytics Backing

According to rating tools such as the ESPN FPI, Indiana is ranked No. 2 overall, behind only the powerhouse Ohio State Buckeyes. That kind of objective backing helps when poll voters are looking at “who appears best right now.”

3. Advantageous Remaining Schedule

Their upcoming slate appears more manageable than many peers. According to one preview, after facing Michigan State, they face just one more team with a current winning record. This type of path helps build a clean resume — fewer “trap” games hanging overhead.

4. Program Momentum & Coaching Stability

With Cignetti’s leadership, Indiana has made strides in recruiting, execution, and program culture. That’s been rewarded with an eight-year contract extension worth roughly $93 million. That kind of program commitment sends a message: This isn’t a fluke run.

What’s Holding Them Back from #1 (But Pushing Them Toward #2)

Even with all the positives, there are still hurdles:

The benchmark #1 team (Ohio State) remains very strong. Until Indiana beats the very top teams and/or that No. 1 stumbles, leap‐frogging to #1 is difficult.
They’ll need to maintain consistency, avoid slip‐ups, and win convincingly — voters tend to reward dominance, not just undefeated status.
Strength of schedule matters. While their remaining schedule is favorable, it also means fewer opportunities to beat the very best (which can hurt when paired vs. peers in late‐season comparisons).

All that said, a #2 ranking is very attainable at this moment. With signature wins, strong metrics, and few blemishes, Indiana is arguably in the best position it’s ever been.

The Case For #2 — Quick Snapshot

7-0 record, showing both offense and defense performing at a high level
A marquee win on the road over a top-5 team (Oregon)
Dominant recent performance vs. Michigan State (38-13)
Ranked No. 3 in AP poll (school’s highest ever) and strong analytic rankings, putting them at No. 2
Favorable remaining schedule gives them runway to remain unbeaten

Finale: What’s Next?

Indiana’s next steps will determine if this is a footnote or a real jump into elite status:

Stay unbeaten. One loss now would derail #2 conversations more than it used to.
Win their remaining games decisively. Offense and defense both need to show it.
Push for a win in the Big Ten (if applicable) or at least finish undefeated to strengthen résumé for the playoff.
Continue beating ranked or high-profile opponents if they arise. Signature wins matter.